Watch Good Fences
- R
- 2003
- 1 hr 59 min
-
5.7 (905)
Good Fences is a heartfelt drama from 2003 that stars Danny Glover and Whoopi Goldberg as a middle-aged couple trying to cope with the changes in their lives. The film is directed by actor-turned-filmmaker Ernest Dickerson and features a talented cast that includes Zachary Simmons Glover, Mo'Nique, and Ryan Michelle Bathe. The story takes place in the 1970s and centers around the Wilson family, who have just moved to a predominantly white suburb of New York City. Glover plays Tom Wilson, a struggling artist who has brought his family to the area in hopes of finding success and stability. Goldberg plays his wife Mabel, who initially resists the move but eventually comes to embrace her new home.
As the Wilsons settle into their new neighborhood, they encounter a series of challenges and obstacles. Tom struggles to find work and gain recognition for his art, while Mabel tries to adjust to the social norms and expectations of their new community. Their son Cory (Zachary Simmons Glover) runs into trouble at school for being one of the only black students, and their daughter Cheryl (Bathe) deals with her own personal struggles.
Through it all, the Wilsons rely on their love for each other to weather the storms of their new life. Though they face discrimination and prejudice, they refuse to let those forces define them. Instead, they work to carve out their own place in the world and create a home where they feel safe and loved.
Good Fences is a poignant look at the challenges that face black families who move into predominantly white neighborhoods. It is a film that speaks to the universal experience of trying to fit in and find acceptance, and it does so with grace and compassion. Despite its serious themes, the movie is infused with humor and warmth, which makes it an engaging and entertaining viewing experience.
Part of what makes Good Fences so powerful is the outstanding performances of its cast. Danny Glover is particularly effective as Tom, a man who is struggling to make a living while also pursuing his dreams. Goldberg is also excellent as Mabel, a woman who is trying to reconcile her own values with the expectations of her new community. And Zachary Simmons Glover is a revelation as Cory, a young man who is caught between the worlds of his family and his peers.
The film is beautifully shot and captures both the gritty reality of city life and the idyllic beauty of suburbia. The soundtrack is also noteworthy, with a mix of classic Soul and R&B tracks that help to bring the period setting to life.
In conclusion, Good Fences is an engaging and thought-provoking drama that shines a light on the challenges faced by black families in America during the 1970s. The film is anchored by outstanding performances, compelling characters, and a heartfelt message about the power of love and resilience. It is a movie that deserves to be seen by all who are interested in social justice, race relations, and the power of the human spirit.
Good Fences is a 2003 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 59 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.7.